Indian wrestling sensation Vinesh Phogat brought the curtain down on her illustrious career on Thursday, a day after suffering a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024.
Phogat, who has enjoyed immense success in her over two-decade long career and was on the cusp of scripting history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic wrestling medal, failed to make the 50kg weight category during the weigh-in prior to her final bout. The 29-year old came in 100 grams over the limit, resulting in an automatic ouster from the tournament.
In an emotional social media post, Phogat apologized to her mother while announcing her retirement from the sport that she has dominated for many years now. “Mother, wrestling has got the better of me as I have lost. Your dream and my courage lies shattered. I no longer have the strength to continue,” wrote the tearfulPhogat.
Phogat's disqualification dealt a huge blow to India's medal hopes at the Games. She was considered the frontrunner for gold and was just one win away from etching her name in the history books. However, things went horribly wrong during the weigh-in as she failed to make the stipulated weight range after having competed flawlessly in the previous rounds.
The wrestling federation is seeking recourse through the Court of Arbitration for Sport, appealing that Phogat be awarded a joint silver medal since she had reached the final bout. A verdict is expected later on Thursday.
Phogat's shocking retirement has brought the curtains down on an illustrious career where she established herself as one the most decorated Indian wrestlers of all time. She will be dearly missed by fans and the sport alike.
